January 30, 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Senior midfielder Manpreet Singh and two other players were dropped from the squad due to disciplinary issues, according to team sources, in a development that has sparked discussion within Indian sports circles. While official statements from the team management remain limited, sources close to the setup indicate that the decision was taken to maintain discipline and uphold team culture ahead of crucial upcoming assignments.
Manpreet Singh, a former captain and one of India’s most experienced hockey players, has long been considered a cornerstone of the national team. His omission, therefore, has drawn particular attention, with fans and analysts alike seeking clarity on the circumstances that led to such a high-profile decision. Team sources, however, stressed that the move was not performance-related but linked strictly to internal disciplinary matters.
According to insiders, the issues reportedly arose during a recent training camp and team activities, where certain protocols and codes of conduct were allegedly breached. While details of the incidents have not been made public, officials emphasized that the team management follows a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to discipline, irrespective of a player’s stature or past contributions.
“The decision was taken in the larger interest of the team,” a source said. “No individual is bigger than the team, and discipline is a non-negotiable aspect of representing the country.” The same source added that the management had deliberated extensively before arriving at the decision, given the experience and influence of the players involved.
The other two players dropped alongside Manpreet Singh are also understood to be part of the senior core, making the decision even more significant. Their absence is expected to open up opportunities for younger players, who could now get a chance to prove themselves at the highest level. Coaches and selectors reportedly see this as an opportunity to reinforce accountability while also testing bench strength.
The development comes at a time when the team is preparing for important international competitions, making squad harmony and focus critical. Team management believes that maintaining strict discipline standards is essential to ensure unity and peak performance, especially in high-pressure tournaments.
Manpreet Singh’s leadership record and experience in major events—including the Olympics, World Cup, and Asian Games—have earned him widespread respect. His role in guiding younger players and stabilizing the midfield has been widely acknowledged. However, sources suggest that repeated warnings may have preceded the final call, indicating that the decision was not abrupt.
Former players and experts have offered mixed reactions. Some have backed the management, arguing that discipline must come before individual reputations. “If rules are bent for senior players, it sets a dangerous precedent,” a former international player said. Others, however, have urged transparency, suggesting that clearer communication could help avoid speculation and misinformation.
The team’s governing body is expected to issue a formal clarification in the coming days, which may shed more light on the matter. Until then, officials have urged fans and media to refrain from drawing conclusions based on incomplete information.
From a broader perspective, the episode highlights the evolving culture within Indian sports teams, where professionalism, discipline, and accountability are increasingly emphasized. Over the past decade, several teams have adopted stricter codes of conduct, reflecting a shift toward high-performance environments aligned with global standards.
For Manpreet Singh and the other players, the door is reportedly not closed. Team sources indicate that the decision is not necessarily permanent and that players could be considered again if issues are resolved and standards met. “This is corrective, not punitive,” a source noted, adding that performance, attitude, and adherence to team values will guide future selections.
As preparations continue, the focus for the team will be on moving forward and maintaining stability. The coaching staff is believed to be working closely with the remaining squad members to ensure minimal disruption and sustained performance levels.
While the absence of senior players may pose short-term challenges, the management appears confident that the team’s long-term interests are best served by reinforcing discipline and unity. The coming weeks will reveal how the decision impacts team dynamics and results on the field.
Summary:
Manpreet Singh and two other players were dropped from the squad due to disciplinary issues, team sources said, emphasizing that the decision was taken to uphold discipline and team culture over individual stature.